Grant Spotlight: American Association of University Women STEM Equity Grants

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) is offering one- and two-year grants, with extra consideration for proposals involving schools, designed to address the needs of girls and women or to educate the public on related issues.

AAUW encourages proposals that aim to "build partnerships between schools and community organizations" or that "use innovative approaches to address local community needs or build links among community partners," according to information released by the organization.

The one-year grants, ranging from $2,000 to $7,000, are for community-based projects that advance equity for women and girls.

The two-year grants, in amounts of $5,000 to $10,000, are for "new projects that address the particular needs of the community and develop girls' sense of efficacy through leadership, advocacy or training opportunities. Funds support planning activities, coalition building, implementation and evaluation," according to the AAUW site. Though projects may change a bit over the course of implementation, funding for the second year of two-year grants depends upon a successful first year. Existing projects will not be funded.

AAUW will give special consideration to proposals that focus on women and girls' achievements in STEM topics in grades K-12 and the first two years of college, include community partners such as schools or school districts or that involve AAUW branches.

AAUW will begin accepting applications Aug. 1 with a January deadline.